I’ve been ruminating on the subject of consumerism and hoarding as per my usual existential Saturday 420 (which is coincidentally 4/20!)… and I have a few things to say about it. So, I take to the blog in an extremely unprofessional matter to let you know my thoughts and spill a few secrets on the way.

Recently, I threw out an IG story pondering whether I've traded genuine human connections for material possessions. Surprisingly, many of you chimed in, echoing similar sentiments. It was a refreshing change from my usual existential crises, let me tell you.

I'll be honest – I have a penchant for pretty things over people. I'm pragmatic to a fault in conversation, and I'm terrible at nurturing relationships. I'm a creature of habit, often engrossed in my own pursuits. Things, and pets, are just easier to deal with.

Cut to me cleaning out my garage last Saturday. As I sifted through my treasures, the urge to toss it all hit me. You see, I'm what they call an "impulse buyer." I've been told to snag whatever catches my eye immediately, and boy, do I like everything. It's a hunter-gatherer, nest-feathering instinct, really. Flea markets and shopping are my playgrounds.

But here's the kicker: my purchases are more impulsive than intentional. I buy things because they make me chuckle or look interesting, not necessarily because they're interior design gold. Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't – it's a gamble.

So, what's my big secret to making your home look intentional and expensive?

Kill Your Darlings

In the world of creative writing, "Kill your darlings" is a golden rule. As a USC grad in creative writing, I've heard it more times than I care to admit. It's about cutting the fluff to let the true gems shine through. And the same principle applies to your home.

Now, I know what you're thinking – decluttering sounds like a tedious chore. But trust me, it's a game-changer.

And you’re also thinking — this coming from the self-professed hoarder and maximalist?

But hear me out.

Picture this: You walk into a room and it feels effortlessly chic, every item in its place, nothing unnecessary cluttering up the scene. That's the magic of decluttering. Not only does it create a sense of calm and order, but it also makes your space look more expensive and intentional.

Here's why:

1. Visual Breathing Room: Clutter can make a room feel cramped and chaotic. By clearing out unnecessary items, you create visual breathing room, allowing each piece of furniture and decor to shine. Suddenly, your space feels more spacious and luxurious, without the need for a major renovation.

2. Highlighting Key Pieces: When your space isn't cluttered with excess stuff, the pieces you do have stand out. That statement piece of furniture you splurged on? It finally gets the attention it deserves. Whether it's a beautiful vintage armchair or a stunning piece of artwork, decluttering allows these items to take center stage.

3. Streamlined Aesthetic: Ever notice how high-end interiors often have a clean, streamlined look? That's no accident. Decluttering helps you achieve that same aesthetic by removing distractions and allowing your design choices to shine. Suddenly, your space feels more curated and intentional, like every item was chosen with care.

4. Less is More: In the world of design, less is often more. By decluttering, you're embracing the beauty of simplicity and minimalism. You're saying goodbye to excess and hello to elegance. And let's be honest – who doesn't want their space to exude a sense of effortless sophistication?

So, how do you get started? It's simple, really. Set aside some time to tackle each room one by one. Be ruthless in your decluttering efforts – if you don't love it or need it, it's time to say goodbye. And don't forget to organize what's left in a way that makes sense for your lifestyle.

Declutter is not a code word for minimalism

Let's set the record straight: I love my clutter. My home is filled with trinkets, knick-knacks, and memories galore. And you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way. But that doesn't mean I'm opposed to the idea of decluttering. It just means I do it on my own terms.

Here's the thing – decluttering is all about creating a space that works for you. It's not about adhering to some strict set of rules or conforming to a particular aesthetic. It's about finding a balance between chaos and order that feels right for you.

So, why declutter if you love your clutter? Well, for starters, decluttering doesn't mean getting rid of everything you own. It means being intentional about what you keep and how you organize it. It means making space for the things that truly matter to you and letting go of the rest.

But here's the kicker – you get to decide what stays and what goes. Maybe you have a collection of vintage teacups that brings you joy every time you look at it. Great, keep it! Or perhaps you have a pile of old magazines that you haven't touched in years. Maybe it's time to let those go.

The point is, decluttering is a personal journey. It's about creating a space that reflects who you are and what you love. And for some of us, that means embracing our clutter and all the memories that come with it.

So, the next time someone tells you that decluttering means going minimalist, kindly tell them to buzz off. Because here's the truth – you can love your clutter and still create a space that feels organized and intentional. It's all about finding the right balance for you.

So go ahead, embrace your clutter. Declutter on your own terms and create a space that feels uniquely yours. After all, isn't that what home is all about?

Maximally yours,